SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — The Honourable René Cormier

Honourable senators, I would like to sincerely congratulate our esteemed colleague, Senator René Cormier, who has just been appointed as a knight of the Legion of Honour, the highest distinction in the French Republic.

This is a wonderful tribute to his exceptional commitment to the French language and culture, a commitment that stems directly from his proud, deep Acadian and French-Canadian roots.

Since his arrival in the Senate, René has been a staunch defender of the founding language of our country, his home province of New Brunswick, the great Acadian people and the francophone community, whose history helped build this great nation.

His dedication to promoting the French fact and strengthening ties between Canada and France is admirable.

No one in this institution is more deserving of this honour. As Speaker pro tempore, he has always served with remarkable honour and dedication, and it is no surprise that this accolade has been added to his list of accomplishments.

In being appointed to the Legion of Honour, René joins the ranks of great Canadians who came before him, including the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Senators Serge Joyal and Gérald Beaudoin, former governor general Michaëlle Jean and many others.

Today, we are celebrating not only an outstanding distinction, but also the lasting impact made by a friend and colleague whose passion, leadership and commitment enrich our institution and our country.

Congratulations, René. This is a well-deserved honour.